Bangladesh Hindus protest over halted Ram statue project and alleged desecration of Lord Ram image

PTC Web Desk: Thousands of Hindus took to the streets in Bangladesh on Friday after the construction of a giant Lord Ram statue was suspended following alleged threats from Islamist groups.

Protesters gathered in Dhaka and other parts of the country, carrying torches and raising religious slogans. The demonstrations were also linked to allegations that an image of Lord Ram was desecrated during a protest against the statue project earlier this month.

Several Hindu organisations, including the Hindu Mahajot, led marches and demonstrations in the capital. Protesters demanded the arrest of those allegedly involved in the desecration incident and accused authorities of failing to take action despite a police case being registered.

The protesters issued a 72-hour deadline to the government, warning of larger demonstrations if those responsible are not arrested. They also announced plans to submit a memorandum to the Ministry of Religious Affairs.

The controversy centers on an 81-foot-tall statue of Lord Ram being built in Palashbari in the northern Gaibandha district. The project is part of a larger temple complex that also includes planned statues of Lord Krishna and Lord Shiva. According to the temple committee, nearly 80 percent of the construction work has already been completed.

Temple officials said the project was put on hold after receiving threats from Islamist groups. They claimed that some religious leaders publicly opposed the statue and warned of action against the project. Due to security concerns, the committee decided to suspend construction.

Haridas Chandra Das, president of the Sri Sri Radha Govinda Temple Committee, said the decision was taken out of fear for the safety of those involved in the project. The committee also appealed to the government to ensure protection and allow the work to continue peacefully.

In a separate statement, temple representatives said the suspension was aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing communal tensions. They stressed that the project was intended as a religious tribute and not to offend any community.

Meanwhile, Hindu groups warned that if the Ram statue project is not allowed to resume, they would launch a wider campaign to build Ram temples across all 64 districts of Bangladesh.

Hindus are the largest religious minority in Bangladesh and make up around eight percent of the country's population. The latest developments have once again raised concerns about minority rights and religious freedom in the country.